GAY RIGHTS: Queer Nation criticizes Mark Takano

As the first gay person of color elected to Congress, Rep. Mark Takano, D-Riverside, is often in the spotlight when it comes to gay rights.

But at least one gay rights group thinks Takano hasn’t done enough. Earlier this week, New York-based Queer Nation announced it would make Takano the focal point of a social media campaign to pressure him to support what it considers strong legislation to protect the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered community from discrimination.

The group is upset that Takano supports the Employment Non-Discrimination Act or ENDA. Queer Nation contends that bill is too weak because it would provide a loophole for employers to fire LGBT employees for religious reasons.

"We agree with Mark Takano on the need for comprehensive immigration reform and for an end to discrimination, but why doesn’t he see that LGBT Americans need comprehensive legislation, not ENDA," Queer Nation member Ken Kidd said in a news release.

"We know that LGBT Americans are equal in every way. Mr. Takano, can you say that you do? It’s a simple question and the actions that we see you take will answer it."

In a written response, Takano spokesman Brett Morrow said: "Congressman Takano has always supported the idea of a comprehensive LGBT rights bill – a fact that was reported as recently as several weeks ago in a national LGBT media outlet."

"The Congressman also believes that it is more beneficial for activist groups to work with lawmakers on this issue, instead of creating the image of a rift that, in all actuality, doesn’t even exist."

Takano, who was first elected in 2012, represents a district that includes Riverside, Perris, Moreno Valley and Jurupa Valley. He is running for re-election this year against Republican and Riverside Councilman Steve Adams.

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